E: Cardiorespiratory Arrest Flashcards
(28 cards)
What is a cardiac arrest
Sudden cessation of hearts functioning
How are arrhythmias associated with cardiac arrest divided
- Shockable
- Non-Shockable
What are the ‘shockable’ rhythms
Ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation
What are the ‘non-shockable’ rhythms
- Pulseless electrical activity
- Asystole
What is a way to remember causes of cardiac arrest
4H’s
5T’s
What are the causes of cardiac arrest
Hypoxia
Hyperkalaemia/Hypokalaemia
Hypothermia
Hypovolaemia
Thrombosis VTE Tension pneumothorax Cardiac tamponade Toxins
How will a patient appear with cardiac arrest present
unresponsive and not breathing
What is the first protocol in managing a cardiac arrest patient
basic life support
Who can perform BLS
any individual - medically trained or lay-person
What is first stage in BLS
call an ambulance (999)
What else is done in BLS
A-E approach
A- check unobstructed airway
B- chin lift and jaw thrust
C- chest compressions at 30:2
What is the rate of chest compressions
100-120bpm
What is the ratio of compressions to rescue breaths
30:2
What is the next stage in managing cardiac arrest
advanced life support
Who can perform advanced life support
trained individuals
What is the first step in advanced life support
assess the patient, call the resuscitation team (2222) and start chest compressions
What is the second stage in advanced life support
turn on the defibrillator place the pads and use it to assess the rhythm (if it is shockable)
What are the shockable rhythms
VT, VF
If a shockable rhythm what should be done
- 1 Shock is administered
- 2 minutes chest compressions
- Deliver up to 3 shocks
What energy is used for the shock
150-200J
How long are chest compressions continued for
2 minutes following first shock
How many shocks are given
3
If 3 shocks does not work what should be given
- 1mg IV adrenaline and 300mg IV amiodarone
What dose of adrenaline is given and what route
- 1mg IV
